BEML driverless metro trainset debuts for Phase-2 corridors

BEML driverless metro trainset has moved a step closer to service with the rollout of a prototype for the Namma Metro Phase-2 expansion, as covered by Rail Analysis.

The Make-in-India trainsets are being developed under a Rs. 3,177-crore contract to support major additions to Bangalore’s metro network.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The prototype is part of the Driverless Metro Trainset (5RS-DM) program for Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL). It is intended for Phase-2 corridors 2A and 2B, covering the Blue Line (Airport Line) and the Pink Line—both described as critical links in Bangalore’s ongoing metro growth.

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At the rollout ceremony, senior officials from BMRCL and BEML Limited were in attendance. Dr. J. Ravishankar, IAS, Managing Director of BMRCL, led the event, joined by Shri Shantanu Roy, Chairman & Managing Director of BEML Limited, along with officials from both organizations. A test run at the BEML Rail Complex accompanied the ceremony, as reported by The Economic Times, pointing to progress on execution.

Contract package for 318 Standard Gauge metro cars

Under the Rs. 3,177-crore agreement—secured through a competitive global bidding process—BEML will supply 318 Standard Gauge metro cars for BMRCL’s Phase-2 network. The scope spans the full lifecycle of delivery, including design and detailed engineering, manufacturing and supply, installation, testing, and commissioning, as well as comprehensive maintenance support for up to 15 years, consistent with the base contract scope outlined in a BEML press release (PDF).

BEML says the trainsets are being designed, engineered, and manufactured at its Bangalore facilities. This approach underlines the company’s Make-in-India positioning for metro rolling stock intended for advanced urban operations.

Automation roadmap: BEML driverless metro trainset and GoA4

The new fleet is being configured for Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4), enabling fully driverless operations. With in-house design and engineering capabilities, BEML continues to present itself as prepared for the stringent safety, reliability, and performance expectations associated with driverless metro systems.

Seen in that light, the program reflects a shift toward more automated urban rail solutions while remaining tied to the requirements of the Bangalore Metro Phase-2 corridors.

Passenger systems planned for the new Bangalore Metro trains

Alongside automation, the trainsets are planned with passenger-facing technologies aimed at improving information, safety, and operational precision. The specification includes IP-based Passenger Announcement (PA) and Passenger Information System (PIS) functions to support real-time station and journey updates.

Security and guidance features listed for the fleet include a Passenger Saloon Surveillance System (PSSS) and LCD-based dynamic route map displays. The trains are also planned with electrically driven automatic doors designed to synchronize with Platform Screen Doors, supporting safe and consistent platform operations.

BEML has highlighted its long-standing role in Bangalore’s transit ecosystem and describes itself as the largest rolling stock supplier to BMRCL. The prototype rollout reinforces that position within the Phase-2 expansion while reflecting India’s Make-in-India mobility vision, backed by GoA4 capability and a long-term maintenance commitment.

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